Chapter 32: Chapter 32
Kyoka Suigetsu, the most formidable illusion-type Zanpakuto, possessed an ability that was as terrifying as it was elegant: complete domination over the five senses. Whether it was sight, sound, touch, taste, or smell, Naruto could manipulate them all with ease. The most frightening aspect of this power was its permanence—once an opponent had witnessed the release of Kyoka Suigetsu, their senses would forever be under Naruto's control.
However, Kyoka Suigetsu was not invincible. Its effectiveness depended heavily on the user's mastery of chakra and spiritual pressure. For Naruto, whose reserves of both were still growing, prolonged use of the Zanpakuto was impractical. The strain it placed on his body was immense, and he knew he couldn't rely on it entirely. Instead, he focused on honing his swordsmanship, ninjutsu, and the mysterious art of Kido.
Naruto's battle with Sasuke had deepened his understanding of Kyoka Suigetsu. While its abilities were undeniably powerful, they were not without limitations. At his current level, Naruto couldn't afford to depend on it too heavily. He needed to develop his own skills further, ensuring he was a formidable opponent even without the Zanpakuto's illusions.
"Illusions… they're fascinating," Naruto mused, a faint smile playing on his lips as he recalled the fight. Sasuke, despite awakening his Sharingan, had been utterly overwhelmed. The Uchiha prodigy had fallen into a coma from the sheer intensity of the pain Naruto had inflicted, cementing Naruto's reputation as the top student in their class.
The news of Sasuke's defeat spread like wildfire through the ninja school and beyond. The mysterious "disappearing blade" and Naruto's newfound Bloodline Limit became the talk of the village. Even the higher-ups in Konoha took notice, including the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi.
Hiruzen sat in his office, a pipe in hand, as he reviewed the reports of Naruto's battle. "A disappearing blade and a mysterious Bloodline Limit… this changes things," he murmured, his expression a mix of surprise and concern. While he didn't doubt Naruto's loyalty to Konoha, he knew this development would attract unwanted attention—especially from Danzo.
As if on cue, Danzo Shimura entered the room, his presence as imposing as ever. "Hiruzen, I've heard about Naruto's Bloodline Limit. Hand him over to the Root. We'll train him properly and ensure his abilities are used to their fullest potential."
Hiruzen's eyes narrowed. He knew exactly what Danzo's "training" entailed—brainwashing, experimentation, and the exploitation of Naruto's abilities for the Root's gain. "Naruto is under my care," Hiruzen said firmly. "He's growing well, forming bonds with his peers, and developing his skills. I won't allow you to interfere."
Danzo's expression darkened, but he said nothing. He knew arguing with Hiruzen would be futile—for now.
After Danzo left, Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. He recalled a conversation he'd had with Naruto months ago. The boy had asked nervously, "Grandfather Hokage, if someone from Konoha awakens a strange ability, are they still part of the village?"
At the time, Hiruzen had smiled and replied, "A ninja's abilities are just tools to carry out their beliefs. As long as they inherit the Will of Fire, no matter how strange their powers, they will always be a part of Konoha."
Naruto had seemed relieved by his answer. Now, Hiruzen realized the boy had likely been referring to his Bloodline Limit. "He was afraid we'd reject him," Hiruzen thought, a pang of guilt tugging at his heart. "Even with such a gift, he doubted his place in the village."
Hiruzen made a mental note to visit Naruto personally. He needed to assess the boy's abilities and ensure he was on the right path.
Meanwhile, in the hospital, Sasuke stirred awake. His vision blurred as he took in the sterile white ceiling and the faint smell of disinfectant. "Where am I?" he muttered, his voice hoarse.
"Sasuke, you're awake!" Mikoto Uchiha's gentle voice filled the room. She rushed to his side, her face a mixture of relief and concern. "Don't move too much. Your injury hasn't fully healed yet."
Sasuke winced as he tried to sit up, a sharp pain shooting through his abdomen. "What happened?" he asked, his mind still foggy.
"You lost to Naruto," Mikoto said softly, though there was a hint of frustration in her tone. "That boy… he went too far this time."
Sasuke's eyes widened as the memories flooded back. The fight, the Sharingan, the overwhelming sense of defeat. "I lost…" he whispered, his voice tinged with disbelief. But then, a faint smile crossed his lips. "No, it's not that simple. Naruto was trying to teach me something."
Mikoto frowned. "What do you mean?"
"He said, 'The sky is colorless. It doesn't deceive you—your eyes do.'" Sasuke's gaze grew distant as he repeated Naruto's words. "He was telling me not to rely too much on my eyes, on the Sharingan. There's more to being a ninja than just power."
Mikoto's expression softened. "You've grown, Sasuke. I'm proud of you."
That evening, Hiruzen visited Naruto at his home. The boy was practicing his swordsmanship in the backyard, his movements fluid and precise. The Third Hokage watched silently for a moment before clearing his throat.
"Naruto," he called out, his voice warm but authoritative.
Naruto turned, his eyes lighting up with recognition. "Grandfather Hokage! What brings you here?"
Hiruzen smiled. "I wanted to see how you were doing. Your battle with Sasuke was quite impressive."
Naruto scratched the back of his head, a sheepish grin on his face. "Thanks. I didn't mean to hurt him so badly, though."
Hiruzen nodded. "I understand. But tell me, Naruto, about your Bloodline Limit. When did you first notice it?"
Naruto hesitated, then sighed. "A while ago. I was scared at first—I didn't know what it meant or if people would accept me. But then I remembered what you said about the Will of Fire, and I realized it didn't matter as long as I used my powers to protect the village."
Hiruzen's heart swelled with pride. "You've grown into a fine young man, Naruto. Your father would be proud."
Naruto's eyes shimmered with emotion, but he quickly composed himself. "Thank you, Grandfather Hokage. I'll keep getting stronger—for Konoha."
As Hiruzen left, he couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. Naruto's Bloodline Limit, while mysterious, was a gift that could benefit the village greatly. But more importantly, the boy's heart was in the right place. He was a true shinobi of Konoha.
Unbeknownst to Hiruzen, Naruto had concealed the true extent of Kyoka Suigetsu's abilities. The Zanpakuto's power to manipulate the five senses was far more terrifying than anyone realized. But for now, Naruto was content to let the village believe his abilities were limited to illusions. After all, a shinobi's greatest weapon was often the element of surprise.
And Naruto had plenty of surprises in store.